New Zealand are the defending champions of all ICC tournaments. They are a team that has reached the semi-finals. Don't be surprised if the New Zealand team, which epitomizes the gentlemen's game through its play and behavior, looks weak. Most of New Zealand's key players have preferred to play in T20 tournaments around the world on a freelance basis rather than playing for the country. These players have not completely stopped playing for the country nor have they taken retirement but the fact is that they will no longer be the pikes of New Zealand cricket.
New Zealand opener Devon Conway has turned down a big contract offer from the New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Conway will now play for New Zealand under a 'casual contract'. Conway has featured in all three formats of the game - Tests, ODIs and T20Is. He scored a century on his Test debut. Conway became New Zealand's opening batsman because of his excellent technique. Conway has also kept wickets on occasion to maintain the balance of the team. However, Conway has decided to give priority to them as there are requests from all over the world to play in T20 leagues. He is an integral part of Chennai Super Kings in IPL.
Conway, who is originally from South Africa, came to New Zealand and made his cricket career. By accepting the casual contract, Conway will be able to play in the SA20 tournament in his home country, South Africa. Meanwhile, Conway has made it clear that he is available for as many Test matches as the New Zealand team will play this season. But after accepting the new contract, playing for the national team will not be a priority for him.
Conway, who is originally from South Africa, came to New Zealand and made his cricket career. By accepting the casual contract, Conway will be able to play in the SA20 tournament in his home country, South Africa. Meanwhile, Conway has made it clear that he is available for as many Test matches as the New Zealand team will play this season. But after accepting the new contract, playing for the national team will not be a priority for him.
Young batsman Finn Allen has not been given a casual contract by the New Zealand Board. Allen is expected to play in the Big Bash League. The board has made it clear that Allen will be considered series-wise.
A few days ago, New Zealand captain and batting mainstay Kane Williamson had opted out of the board's full-time contract. Kane Williamson also stepped down as ODI and T20I captain. Kane is likely to play in the league in South Africa. The Fab Four were awarded to the top four players in the world between 2010 and 2024. Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and Kane Williamson. Kane has the most runs and centuries for New Zealand. However, Kane, who is in the final stage of his career, has now preferred to play in T20 tournaments around the world.
Earlier, New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult had opted out of the contract. Boult is known to be a wicket-taker in the powerplay overs, stop the run-rate and an excellent fielder. T20 teams around the world are eager to add Boult to the fleet. Bolt, who has played in almost every league in the world, made it clear that the New Zealand team would not be the first priority. However, Boult was part of the New Zealand team in the recent T20 World Cup. However, Boult has made it clear that this will be the last World Cup for New Zealand.
The likes of Kane Williamson, Lockie Ferguson, Jimmy Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme and Adam Milne have also opted out of full-time contracts. The players who are an integral part of New Zealand's Test, ODI and T20I teams are out of contract.
What is the Annual Contract of the New Zealand Cricket Board?
New Zealand men's cricketers are paid Rs 5 lakh per Test, Rs 2 lakh per ODI and Rs 1.20 lakh per T20I. New Zealand players are paid less than Indian players. The contracted players get Rs 1.5-2.5 crore each per annum. There are categories of players. The amount of the annual amount varies by category. A big player like Kane Williamson gets a salary of Rs 2.5 crore every year after being signed. In comparison, New Zealand players get paid more by playing T20 leagues for a month or two.
What are the terms of the agreement?
Contracted players are given priority in the selection of the national team. The contracted players have to be ready to play Tests, ODIs and T20Is for New Zealand. It is the responsibility of the contracted player to be available to play whenever the New Zealand team plays, with the exception of injuries or personal difficulties. In addition, contracted players are required to play in the Super Smash, a domestic tournament in New Zealand.